A Tactical Pause: Leading in Law Enforcement

Episode 34: George Sichler, New York Police Department (Ret.)

In this episode, host John Creamer speaks with retired New York Police Department officer George Sichler, whose 20-year career included patrol, gang investigations and service on the department's elite scuba team. They discuss his experiences policing New York City, responding in the aftermath of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, the sacrifices made by first responders and the lasting physical and emotional toll those events continue to have on the men and women who answered the call. Contact Information * www.georgesichler.com [https://www.georgesichler.com/]

Episode 33: Shade McMillian – Leon County Sheriff's Office

In this episode, host John Creamer talks with Leon County Sheriff's Office Sergeant Shade McMillian to discuss recruiting and retention in law enforcement. Shade shares his perspective as the agency's recruiting coordinator and reflects on how today's candidates think differently about careers, placing greater value on culture, purpose, flexibility, and being seen as individuals, not just employees. The conversation explores what attracts people to law enforcement today, the importance of community connection, opportunities for growth across different career paths, and why communication and service remain at the heart of the profession. Shade also discusses the evolving role of social media and agency culture in reaching the next generation of public servants.

Episode 32: Bonnie Eckman – Sensory Specialist

In this episode, host John Creamer welcomes back Bonnie Eckman, an occupational therapist and sensory specialist with After Action, for her second appearance on the show. Together, they tackle a topic that often goes unspoken: this job doesn't just wear you out — it can rewire you. Bonnie explains how first responders' nervous systems function differently from the general population and why willpower or positive thinking alone are not enough when the body is conditioned for chronic activation and stress. Their conversation offers insight into the physiological realities behind stress, trauma and resilience in the first responder profession.

Episode 31: Chief Deputy Audie Rowell

In this episode, host John Creamer is joined by retired Chief Deputy Audie Rowell to reflect on a decades-long career in law enforcement — from patrol to executive leadership — and the lessons shaped along the way. From high-stakes incidents to the quieter internal challenges that shape the profession, Rowell shares hard-earned lessons on leadership, resilience and what today's officers are really up against. Contact Information * Chief Deputy Audie Rowell Facebook Page [https://www.facebook.com/audie.rowell.7/] * Audie Rowell for Congress Facebook Page [https://www.facebook.com/audieforflorida/] * audieforflorida.com [https://www.audieforflorida.com/]

Thirty Episodes Strong: A Tactical Pause at One Year

In this episode, host John Creamer reflects on why the podcast began and revisits some of its most impactful moments — lessons learned, lives touched and where the conversation is headed next. He also takes an honest look at the hard truths of the profession, addressing the challenges and realities that aren't talked about enough in law enforcement.